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Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Getting old isn't really so bad. One of the best perks when you reach dual citizenship (a.k.a. Senior Citizen) is that you get special discounts and privileges.

Some of the law-mandated and government-initiated privileges include:

Discounts and VAT Exemptions on medicines, medical tests and procedures, medical supplies and equipment, food and basic commodities, hotels and transportation fees, recreation centers and in places of leisure such as cinemas, parks, museums, etc.

Automatic PHILHEALTH coverage under the Senior Citizen Category

Exemption from paying terminal fees at all ports owned and operated by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) nationwide.

Priority lanes in government offices and commercial establishments

Free dental and medical services in government facilities

But that's not all --- In Bacolod City, senior citizens get extra privileges aside from the ones mandated by law. Some of which are:

1. Lopues Centre - 10% discount on selected dry goods. We were able to try in at Lopues East only and I have yet to verify if it is the same in other branches.

2. Ayala Capitol Central Cinema - Free movie every Monday during its first screening. Make sure to just present your Senior Citizen ID issued by the City of Bacolod. Other SC cards issued from another city are not honored. Only 20% discount will apply.

Source: Ayala Malls Capitol Central FB Page

3. Azta Urban Salon, Ayala Capitol - 20% discount on all services

Source: Azta Urban Salon FB Page

** If you visit on a Monday (perhaps, after watching a movie) for only Php 200, you can get a haircut and a FREE Loreal Hair Spa. The FREE hair spa offer is valid until August 15, 2019.

4. Waxcuvado Salon, Ayala Capitol - 20% discount on all services

You can read more about their services, here. Do you know any other special privileges available for Senior Citizens? Feel free to comment below or send us a message at www.facebook.com/mymetrolifestyle so, that we can add it in this post.

Friday, July 26, 2019

As a mom of 3 dogs, I have always been concerned about animal welfare. My heart bleeds every time I see a dog or a cat abandoned, abused or worse, killed. As an individual, I can only do so much - like adopting or fostering a dog, donating to animal shelters and volunteering.

For many years, I have always wondered what the government is doing to protect these poor creatures. There are a lot of stories where city dog pounds are just like "hell." The LGU workers assigned do not really care about the dogs. Many would even say that the dogs in the pound do not have food because the city does not have a budget. We also heard a lot of horror stories as to how the city dog pound euthanizes the dogs. They do not really care about how much pain they suffer. What matters is that they get rid of the dogs. For me, it was inhumane. Don't you think these poor voiceless creatures also have the right to live? Are they the ones who should pay for the irresponsible actions of their previous owners? Why is the government not doing anything for their welfare?

However, today I found hope when I read the story circulating online about a dog slaughtered and eaten near the port area in Tondo, Manila. It is such a relief that this time the government did not turn a blind eye on the incident. Mayor Isko Moreno through some PNP men responded in less than an hour and the suspect was apprehended and is currently detained.

Source: Isko Moreno FB Page

Last July 26, Mayor Isko had a meeting with some animal rights group and he gave an assurance that "There will be a place for them" while showing the plans for a new city pound.

Here in the Visayas region. we learned that the newly elected Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas Jr. has ordered department heads to make Talisay City, Cebu a pet-friendly city.

Source: Office of the City Mayor

The huge open area at the Talisay City Hall is now open to our pet dogs and cats for them to get some exercise. Mayor Samsam believes that the welfare of our pets is also important. Pet owners just need to get a pet pass from the City Veterinary Office by showing their dog's unexpired vaccination records for them to enjoy the city hall grounds.

While researching, we also learned that the Talisay City LGU has been implementing other projects for our dearly beloved pets. They also offer FREE spay and neuter services (which is uncommon for most LGUs because they say it is expensive and there is no budget), FREE rabies vaccination, deworming and even vitamin supplementation.

They even celebrate a Pet Day headed by the City where there are free veterinary services, a pet blessing, pet fashion show and IEC campaigns on animal welfare.

Now we can't help but think: what if we have more government officials like this? Can the world be a safer place for both humans and animals? We currently do not have the answers but we are just so happy to find an ally with these local chief executives. We can now start hoping for the best for our furry friends.If you know any outstanding local government initiatives for our pets, feel free to message us at www.facebook.com/mymetrolifestyle so, we can add and update this post. Feel free to share this post to inspire others especially government officials. Thank you!

Thursday, July 25, 2019

There are a lot of definitions of what Motherhood is with endless adjectives to describe it. It is certainly wonderful however, they also say it is messy, noisy and sometimes crazy. According to Donna Bell of www.todaysthebestday.com,

It is a 24/7 job with no rest days. There can never be a perfect mother yet there a million ways to be a good one. However, in this age of time where technology has certainly made our lives easier through unlimited access to information and resources, one cannot deny the fact that Mommy Support Groups online are very important nowadays.

Though it is a challenge to find one where you can be yourself without being judged, I am happy to discover quite a number of online support groups that had been my home. Whether you're tired, happy or nervous, you certainly have someone to share this to aside from family and friends.

In this group, we believe that being a mom is hard but budgeting is even harder. Thus, this growing community is a place for moms and moms-to-be to share the things that can help you in budgeting and how to save money. It is also a great place to get updated with the latest promotions, deals, and freebies (a.k.a. Tipid Hacks)

So, join this growing community and become a "wais mom" as they call it. Feel to invite your other mommy friends too. See you inside. :)

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Last July 20, we planned to have a small meeting with some members of the Negros Online Workers community. Since many opt to have a live coaching session plus an opportunity to get out of the house, we decided to meet over coffee and snacks.

Usually, we just meet at coffee shops. However, it was a Saturday and it may not be a good idea since these places are usually crowded. It is also rude to stay for a long period while ordering a single cup of coffee only while there are a lot of customers waiting to be seated.

Thus, we are so happy to discover the best venue for small meetings in Bacolod and Iloilo. Here are the top 5 reasons why we think you should hold your afternoon meetings at Seda. (By the way, this is not a sponsored post.)

1. Perfect Ambiance

Seda Misto provides the perfect ambiance for meetings. The place is well-lighted, has comfortable chairs and tables and it is usually not crowded. The tables are spaced adequately that you don't disturb the people on the other table.

2. Value for Money

Seda Misto offers Saboroso merienda buffet. It includes an indulgent selection of sandwiches, savory and sweet treats, and an assortment of afternoon coffee and tea.

During our visit, we were able to enjoy tuna canape, salmon canape, ham and cheese canape, chicken canape, puto and dinuguan, chicken nuggets, macaroni salad, fruit salad, mango pannacotta, and assorted pastries. They also alternate serving batchoy and lomi every other day.

Rates are at Php 350 per head for Bacolod and Php 250 per head for Iloilo. I believe this is quite reasonable compared if we go to a coffeeshop. Drinks usually costs Php 150- 180 and cakes around Php 150 so that's pretty much around Php 300 - 330 which is almost just the same. The only difference is that you have more choices with unlimited food and drinks.

3. Delicious Chocolate Drink

Yes, you read it right. If you're not a fan of hot drinks like me, you can ask for a chocolate milk drink from the attendants. It's also unlimited. :)

4. Free Wifi

Though the internet connection may not be as fast as the ones in coworking spaces, they do have a pretty decent wifi connection that you can use to check your emails, browse the internet and check your social media accounts. Just ask the attendants for an access code.

5. Additional Discounts

If you are a SEDA Edge member, you are eligible for a 10% discount (Classic) and 15% (Premier) on your total bill. I believe ARC members also get the same privilege.

So, if you are looking for the best venue for small meetings in Bacolod and Iloilo, then you should definitely consider Seda Misto.

Friday, July 19, 2019

Local news outlets recently reported about an accident involving a group of 20 local and foreign divers whose boat capsized off the waters of Bogo City in Cebu. The passengers immediately scrambled for their smartphones to get a rescue. After about 30 minutes, a Samsung Galaxy S8 was found under the boat submerged in seawater that was still functioning well, which enabled them to contact their rescuers and to provide GPS information that determined their location.

“I really hope my [thank you] can make it to the engineering team as honestly it really saved us all. Only my S8 was able to connect…and worked all the way until we made it to land. It stayed alive for much longer than I thought possible and it really made the difference,” explained Jim Emdee, a Canadian national who owns the smartphone.

Accidents can happen every day. It might seem the most unlikely of heroes but smartphones have become a necessity that they are rarely left at home. These devices enrich one’s lifestyle, enable productivity and connectivity, and in some cases, even save lives.

SAMSUNG shares tips on how to use your Galaxy smartphone in the event of an emergency:

Pre-installed emergency hotline

Knowing who to contact is paramount in the event of an emergency especially life-threatening situations such as fire, explosion, road accident, and national calamities.

In partnership with the Philippine National Police, Samsung developed a mobile application called Samsung 321. Galaxy smartphones issued in the Philippines come pre-installed with this app—a database of emergency services including police stations, fire stations, national disaster hotlines, medical assistance, even motor, and traffic assistance.

In-pocket locator

Always notify an emergency contact of your current location. When on vacation, users are strongly encouraged to turn on their Global Positioning System (GPS) in their Galaxy smartphones to determine their location particularly when traveling alone or going to off-grid places.

SOS messaging and emergency alerts

Galaxy smartphones have the ability to send SOS messages to identified emergency contacts. Simply go to Settings > select Advanced features > turn on Send SOS messages. By pressing the power key three times, a quick SMS alert to your emergency contacts will be automatically sent.

Local telecommunication networks have also enabled emergency cell broadcast systems that allow for quick dissemination of emergency alerts. These have been proven useful in times of national calamities. To check if this function is enabled, go to Messages app > go to Notifications > check Emergency Alerts.

“Putting our customers first is a top priority for Samsung. It is incumbent upon us as a tech leader to find ways to enhance the lives of our customers. We take it as our responsibility to ensure that our products are not only well-made to stand the demands of daily use but must also be equipped with features to help users who find themselves in dire situations,” said James Jung, president of Samsung Philippines.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Solane, the leading LPG solutions brand launches its grandest culinary competition dubbed as Solane Kitchen Hero Chef's Edition. It is the first-ever cooking competition that aims to discover the next big name in the culinary world. This a nationwide search across 16 regional stops to recognize a new generation of talented chefs. According to the Isla LPG Corporation, CEO Ruben Domingo, "We believe that the Philippines has some of the best and most talented chefs in the world. Through the Solane Kitchen Hero competition, we aim to recognize these chefs who are vital in bringing Filipino cuisine to the world stage." Last July 12, 2019, we were privileged to witness the competition live for the Western Visayas leg where Chef Gil George Jucaban of Iloilo was hailed as the Regional Champion.

Chef Gil George Jucaban in action.

His signature dish, Adobo Flakes with Mango Salsa looked really delicious. He used pork tenderloin instead of the usual cut with pork cuts with fats. He also added poached egg to complete this all-time Filipino favorite.

The competition is open to Filipino professional chefs with at least three (3) years of kitchen experience gained locally or abroad. They must be currently employed as a professional chef in a hotel, restaurant or any foodservice establishment.

The competition will be composed of two (2) rounds. The first one is the regional competition and the second round will be the semi-finals and grand finals happening on September 7, 2019, at Eastwood City, Metro Manila. Regional champions will cook-off to find out who among them will be hailed as the first Solane Kitchen Hero Chefs' Edition winner.

Criteria for Judging are as follows:

Featured Ingredient/s - 50%

The recipe must include at least one (1) local ingredient inherent to the province being represented.

Originality and Creativity - 50%

The participant must creatively show a tested recipe which corresponds to the local ingredient/s being used. Photo and caption must contain a personal touch and what inspired them to create the dish.

The winner will take home Php 100,000 and will embark on a culinary trip to Japan with customized stops at different food and drink destinations. This event is co-presented by Midea and supported by Masflex, Jolly, Jolly Heartmate Canola Oil, Dona Elena, and Dona Elena Al Dente, King Sue, Ajinomoto, Philtranco, Fastcat, Chef’s Garb, National Bookstore and their school partner, STI. To know more about Solane Kitchen Hero Chef's Edition, visit Solane website www.solane.com.ph and Facebook page, www.facebook.com/solane.ph

If you are interested to watch the live competition, here's the schedule of upcoming regional legs:

There’s a thin line between the idea of being thoughtful and practical when choosing the perfect gift for couples. Striking a balance can be a real challenge. You have to consider their shared interests and make sure that you pick up something neither of them owns. Novuhair is here to help you decide and make the process simpler.

Introducing 2 gift ideas that fit couples of all forms and are guaranteed to be loved and used by your favorite duo. These gifts are perfect for couples who share the same passion to couples celebrating major milestones together such as engagement, housewarming, and anniversary to name a few.

in need of a natural solution to help prevent hair loss, keep healthy hair and scalp, and stimulate hair growth

opting to regain hair luster and vibrancy

looking for a natural alternative solution to help prevent dandruff and scalp itchiness

in need of scalp cleansing and detoxification

NOVUHAIR TOPICAL SCALP LOTION has a unique combination of 19 natural ingredients that work in synergy to help prevent hair loss and is clinically proven safe and effective.

NOVUHAIR HERBAL SHAMPOO cleanses and prepares the scalp in an optimal way prior to the application of NOVUHAIR topical scalp lotion and helps enhance the effect of the topical scalp lotion.

HERS: Experience a special protection made for your delicate flora

NAFLORA PROTECT is a feminine wash formulated for women of reproductive age and in need of special care to help maintain and protect their natural flora during monthly periods and everyday use. It is formulated with antimicrobial ingredients that help prevent vaginal irritations and infections.

NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner has been formulated
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Regular use of NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner and
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HIS: NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo (free)

Chemical-based
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A good herbal shampoo like NOVUHAIR herbal shampoo may help
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him.

Without being too cheesy, these couple gifts are
fun and surprising, a perfect way to express how much you value their gift of
friendship - a gift that may keep them both well-groomed and well-protected. It
may not be the best gift in the world but it’s the thought that really counts,
agree? Anyways, that’s what friends are for.

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Millennials or those who have been referred to as Generation Y are the individuals who grew up in an electronics-filled and increasingly online and socially-networked world.

If you are born between 1982 and 2002, then continue reading this post and learn more about these life lessons that you should know.

1. Be The Best At What You Do.

Millennials are said to define themselves more by their interest and passion rather than careers. According to Mr. Renee Barian Romero, an avid online gamer who loves to join international competitions and now a successful business consultant and CEO, millennials should strive to be the best at what they do whether it's about arts, writing, dancing or even online gaming.

Renee Barian Romero giving the "GAMER TO GAINER" talk.

When you play games, you take adversaries as a challenge to become the best. Quitting is never an option. Focus on learning and improvement.

One of the lucky students who got a surprise gift.

2. Be a Game Changer.Millennials are known to be passionate about things that impact others: the planet, the environment, social justice, poverty. With proper guidance, these passions can make themselves as ‘changemakers’. What other generations might consider an ‘interest’, Millennials see it as central to who they are. They define success in terms of their ability to turn these interests into accomplishments or even a career. 3. Be a Responsible Social Media User

Growing up in a digital environment, one can tap increasing potential with all the resources available. However, if not utilized properly, these resources may also become distractions that may hinder one’s personal or career growth. Ms. Maria Sigrid Lo, award-winning blogger / social media influencer reminds millennials to be responsible social media users. One should try to post something positive and helpful.

Ma. Sigrid Lo talks about SOCIAL MEDIA FOR MILLENNIALS

As millennials, let us be more than a "selfie-crazy" generation. Make sure to practice social media etiquette. 4. You are Responsible for Your DreamsSha Nacino, global speaker, and author of 12 books shared that to make our dreams come true, you have to be clear on what you want. Be specific. Visualize and find out what you really want in your life. Once you know what your goals are, write your dreams. Create a dream board that will serve as a reminder. Act on your dreams. Dreams don't happen overnight. Take small steps but make sure you do it consistently. You have the control of making your dreams come true. Believe in yourself and not on other people's perception of you.

Sha Nacino shares tips on HOW WE CAN MAKE OUR DREAMS COME TRUE.

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These are just some of our key takeaways during the A MILLENNIAL’S DREAM - an event all about inspiring students and other stakeholders to pursue their passion and purpose through productivity and entrepreneurship in the digital age.

I am here at Bacolod - Silay International Airport waiting for my flight. If you are wondering where I am going, I am flying back to Cebu again to spend more time with my family.This is actually my 3rd trip to the Queen of the South within a month and I am very thankful that my current job allows me to travel anytime I want.

For the past few weeks, Val and I are working on one of our passion projects. Since we have been very blessed, it's about time that we pay it forward. We want to help graduating students find their dream jobs. As we were discussing on how to address the gap that hinders them from having gainful employment, we found out that there are actually several factors affecting their success.

Based on a study conducted by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), graduates of the top 3 educational institutions in the Philippines are hired faster and paid more by employers.

Most corporate recruiters and HR professionals will deny this but this is actually the hard truth. According to one of my favorite bloggers, Tina Perez of www.mrswise.tk, "We are living in a third-world country. And whether we like it or not, where our children graduated from matters a lot." (You can read more about her blog post, here.)

Luckily, I studied at Ateneo from kindergarten to college. So, based on my personal experience, finding a job was quite easy. I got invited to more interviews and got hired faster. Though HR professionals or recruiters won't really say it, I believe that my school has something to do with it and it was one of my advantages. I remember too when I applied to one of the biggest consumer brands here in the country, we were filling out an online application form and there was a dropdown of the list of schools. If you can't find your school on the list, you have no way to proceed with your application. We believed that was their discreet way of shortlisting applicants.When I was working as an online recruiter, I have clients who preferred and prioritized the graduates of the "big" schools for an interview.

I realized that education is a huge investment but worth it. It is the best gift of a parent to his or her children. (So, Papa and Mama - if you are reading this, THANK YOU!)

However, have you thought about what happens if one fails their college entrance exam? How will it affect a person's life? I had a friend who had the money but unfortunately, did not pass the exam in Ateneo. Thus, he was forced to enroll in another school. This detour has definitely changed the next 4 years or more of his life.

Not getting in the "big" school does not necessarily mean doomsday. However, this means that at this crucial point of their lives, right before college, we should readily support our child's future by ensuring that they get accepted in a reputable school. Why take the risk when we can give them more? Enrolling them in a review center is one of the things that we can do for them.

Based on my research, one of the leading and most awarded tutorial and review center in the country is AHEAD TUTORIAL AND REVIEW. They are the first to offer Test-Based Reviews for the country’s most competitive admission exams, namely the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT), the Ateneo College Entrance Test (ACET), and the De La Salle University College Entrance Test (DLSUCET). They have been in the business since 1995 and have several branches in Metro Manila as well as in Baguio and Tuguegarao.

AHEAD TUTORIAL AND REVIEW take pride in their learning programs where students not only prepare for academic excellence, they have also come to embrace their role as future leaders of the global community.

Their services include the following:

Review Programs - These are designed to help students get into the university of their dreams. Their programs help students focus on their lessons, guide them towards topics to be studied, provide them with the right reference materials, and motivate them to study harder.

Tutorial Programs - These are one-on-one and small-group tutorial programs where students get undivided attention and care. Students are assigned tutors who match their personality and requirements. With the right support, children become all that they can possibly be.

Online Programs - AHEAD Tutorial & Review Center has developed an online learning platform designed to help learners work through their everyday academic concerns. Through AHEAD Online, students can review for their exams, finish their homework, and study their lessons in advance in the comfort of their own home. Students will have one-on-one reviews with expert tutors through video-conferencing platforms in a clear and seamless manner. This is actually my favorite among their offerings.

What I like about this center is that they have very good feedback from their students plus, their online programs is one of a kind. Making you maximize the sessions without being affected by external factors like traffic which will either get you so tired or lazy.

Anyway, I will be boarding the plane in a bit. Just share your thoughts in the comments section below. If you have more questions, you may email AHEAD directly at info@ahead.edu.ph or call them at (02) 426-0034 to 36 or 0917-89 (AHEAD) 24323.